Rake

Time Out says

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(5)

Time Out says

4 out of 5 stars

When asked how often his team change the draught options here, the barman casually replied that it depended on consumption: perhaps daily, perhaps every couple of days.

To say that this blue-fronted spot has Aechte Schlenkerle Rauchbier (a rare smoked variety from Bamberg), Jenlain, Meteor Pils and Grisette Fruits des Bois on tap will be old news by the time you read this, but that gives you an idea of what the type of beers that appear here.

The only guarantee, as advertised on a yellow sign above the bar, is that there’ll be ‘No crap on tap’. The tap brews, offered in third-of-a-pint measures for easy sampling, are merely the tip of a beery iceberg: as befits an operation run by the folk behind the Utobeer stall in Borough Market, there are also bottles galore from all corners of the world, an enticing selection sold at elevated prices. The room is tiny with few decorative distractions; a small covered courtyard provides extra shelter.

"title"

Not the easiest to find but a gem for those looking to broaden their beer horizons. Great selection on tap and in fridges and a great little sun trap of a terrace which is far quieter than it's location would suggest. Go, try as much as you can and come back several times to try the beers that have replaced your previous favourites.

While I'm happy to adapt to local ways when abroad, there are some American things I'd rather not give up. To see that you carry my Anchor Steam on tap means you'll be my first early morning stop next time I visit London.

13/07/12
Absolutely blinding pub. The bar is the size of a domestic lounge (with pumps) but getting served reasonably quickly is no problem. People tend to queue in lines of 4 or 5 so you are served in an orderly fashion. If its too busy in the bar area (often the case on a Fri) you can migrate to the covered decking area where there are plenty of seats. It reminds me of being at a wedding reception where after getting your drink you move to a nice relaxing area. In fact its like a marquee! I would imagine it must be terrific when the sun shines (if we ever get to that point). Only lager and bitter sold but top notch quality. The pub is run by the UTO brewery and beers can be subject to change each day. Tried the Brooklyns lager (£4.10 p per half, ABV 5.5) which was really nice, slightly fizzy and had me quivering all over with pleasure. One of the beers was green! Actually looked good but maybe another time. Cask Ale £3.60 a pt, Pilsner £4.10 a pt. Some of the beers are high ABV and are matched by higher prices. However its probably worth paying more for beers that should be relished, absorbed and treated with respect. If you fall over later that may add to the enjoyment of the evening but then again maybe not. I was recently sick with fatigue and a rasping cough but going to the Rake was the first positive step in my recovery. Would I go there again? I just did last Fri (20/07/12).

Just the most amazing andsurprising place around. Weird pub, weird beers, weird customers. Totally excellent. I really like the bar staff - they manage hotel-style service
and knowledge of what they're selling and do an early 90s proper pub
friendly service. If you want 5 star London trendy fashion - go elsewhere. If you want 5 star beer go to The Rake